Metro to seek compensation from alleged copper cabling thief

A man is set to plead guilty to charges of stealing copper cabling valued at almost $5800 from sites across Melbourne's train network, in thefts that caused major disruptions for commuters.

Aaron Przybylski is charged with stealing various forms of cabling from Merlynston train station and sites in Campbellfield, Fawkner and Tottenham on May 23 last year, according to charge sheets tendered to Melbourne Magistrates Court on Tuesday.

Outside court, a spokeswoman for Metro said the thefts caused disruptions that cost the train operator $390,000.

The spokeswoman said delays of up to 77 minutes were experienced by commuters on the Upfield, Craigieburn and Sunbury train lines, with knock-on effects reported on the Williamstown, Werribee, Frankston and Sandringham lines.

More than 100 Metro train services were affected that day, including 34 cancellations, she said.

Metro planned to seek damages from Przybylski once the criminal proceedings were completed, the spokeswoman said.

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The damages would include compensation for repairs to train lines, penalties for train delays and the cost of hiring buses to ferry passengers between Footscray and Sunshine train stations.

The court heard Przybylski, 24, intended to plead guilty to charges at his next hearing. He faces five counts of theft and five counts of possessing cutters to use in a theft. He also faces drug charges, possessing a knife and a driving offence.

The cabling Przybylski stole was valued at $5790, according to the charge sheets.

The court heard Przybylski, of Sydenham, grew up in Queensland but moved to Melbourne about three years ago hoping to make a fresh start to his life.

Magistrate Franz Holzer said Przybylski's circumstances meant he should next appear before the assessment and referral court list, which hears the cases of people with mental-health issues. Przybylski also had experienced drug and alcohol problems, the court heard.

Przybylski, who wore a blue hooded jacket and had his hair dyed shades of blue, green and pink, is on bail. He is scheduled to return to court next month.

Metro and train operators across the world face a battle to reduce the number of copper cabling thefts, which have increased in recent years because of the high price of the metal.

Public Transport Victoria last year estimated the value of time and productivity lost by passengers to copper theft at more than $3 million for the year.